Disability Equality

The Equality Act 2010 provides protection against discrimination, harassment and victimisation on the grounds of disability. It has extended the Act by:

  • Extending the definition to include indirect discrimination for people with a disability.
  • A new protection for discrimination arising from disability has been introduced
  • The duty to make reasonable adjustments for disabled people has been extended to when a disabled person experiences a 'substantial disadvantage'. The previous duty applied when it was 'impossible or unreasonably difficult for a disabled person to work, study or use a service' (ECU Briefing on Key Actions 2010). See also: ACAS guidance 2010.
  • The definition of disability is extended to cover people who have had a disability in the past (ECU Briefing on Key Actions 2010).
  • Limitation on the use of health related questions during staff recruitment and selection. For further information see ECU guidance: pre-employment health questionnaires.

For a summary of the key legislation, see the Equality Challenge Unit guidance, Disability: key legislation

The University of York's work on equality in relation to disability:

Disability Equality Scheme: The University's Disability Equality Scheme sets out how the University works towards achieving disability equality for staff and students. It includes an Action Plan on disability equality for 2009-12 and includes data relating to staff and students.

The University is committed to continuous development which is informed by feedback and consultation with students and staff with disabilities. Developments are set out in the Disability Equality Scheme. Key areas of work, informed by consultation are:

Services: A range of services in support of disability equality are provided. Disability Services within Student Support Services helps students, whatever their disability, to access the full range of academic, cultural and social activities which the University has to offer, including support for international students. For staff, Disability Support Services provide guidance on reasonable adjustments, redeployment and information about Access to Work.

Learning and Teaching: The Academic Support Office has developed, in conjuction with Disability Services, information, guidance and resources on disability and learning and teaching.

Library Services: The Library is committed to ensuring that all students and staff can make the best possible use of services and collections. A range of facilities and services are available at the main university libraries for people who have a disability or specific learning difficulty.

IT Services: IT Services aim to offer facilities suitable for all users, taking into account the specific needs of users with disabilities. A range of help and advice is provided.

Careers Service: guidance is provided for students with a disability on applying for jobs and going for interviews. A mentoring programme offers students with disabilities the opportunity to be mentored by a professional member of staff in a local organisation.

Assessment and Examinations: individual examination arrangements may be approved to ensure that equitable examination conditions are provided which enable students to demonstrate their knowledge and competence notwithstanding their disability,

Student Finance: Guidance is provided on the main sources of disability related funding and benefits and tax credits for disabled students.

Accommodation: the University has a process through which students with additional requirements can apply for a particular type of room or location.

Open Door Team: the Open Door Team offers help for students experiencing emotional, psychologcial or mental health difficulties.

 

What can I do to promote equality at the University?

  • Help to ensure that all staff and students are aware that discrimination is unacceptable and unlawful

  • Ensure that all staff and students in your department are aware of the Public Sector Equality Duty and the University's Disability Equality Scheme

  • Understand and adhere to the University’s Equality Policies

  • Show respect for others within the University

  • Help to eliminate harassment and report it immediately

  • Play your part in promoting a culture of dignity and respect

 

 

Last updated by the Equality and Diversity Office

January 2012

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